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Working in Tax

The work you can do

With tax rules and regulations evolving, staying compliant can be a challenge. ICAEW Chartered Accountants play an important role in providing clarity and supporting confident decision-making.

Key skills

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Analytical skills

Working in tax involves interpreting data, identifying patterns and applying technical knowledge. Strong analytical thinking helps you assess complex information and provide well-informed advice.

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Application of law

Tax professionals must understand and apply legislation accurately in different scenarios. This ensures compliance while also helping individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions.

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Attention to detail

Working in tax requires a high level of accuracy when reviewing financial information and applying regulations. Paying close attention to detail helps ensure compliance and reduces the risk of errors.

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Communication skills

Explaining tax regulations clearly is an important part of the role. Being able to communicate complex information in a straightforward way helps clients and stakeholders understand their obligations and options.

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Numerical skills

Strong numerical ability is essential when calculating liabilities and interpreting financial data. Confidence with numbers allows you to work efficiently and provide accurate outcomes for clients and businesses.

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Time management

Tax work often involves tight deadlines, particularly around reporting periods. Managing your time effectively helps you prioritise tasks, meet deadlines and maintain a high standard of work.

Chelsea Aldridge Stefanidis - Tax Interview with Chelsea Aldridge Stefanidis, Tax Planning Manager at Mondelez International.

Working in tax

Tax accountants help their clients, whether businesses or individuals, to make sure they are meeting their legal obligations.

Responsibilities include tax planning activities, as well as ensuring regulatory compliance and adherence to corporate governance procedures.

On a day-to-day basis this could include completing and submitting tax returns, explaining tax law to high net-worth clients or ensuring that strategies are in place for proposed changes in legislation.

As an ACA student you might be asked to:

  • Produce tax computations
  • Research legislation and recent legal cases 
  • Advise clients on their tax requirements
  • Complete and submit tax returns
  • Will work closely with HM Revenue & Customs

Why work in tax

Specialising in tax offers ICAEW Chartered Accountants the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients while navigating an ever-changing regulatory landscape.

The work you do can help individuals and businesses stay compliant, make informed financial decisions and plan for the future, offering strong career satisfaction and variety.

The role can be complex and detail-focused, so you will need strong analytical thinking and an interest in applying legislation, alongside the ability to communicate clearly and confidently with others.

ACA-CTA Joint Programme

The ACA-CTA Joint Programme means you can train to become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Tax Adviser at the same time. This enables you to specialise in tax from the start of your career.

Find out more